Wing Decisions

RV7Factory · #1 10-25-2005, 01:52 PM

I just started my wings and I am beginning to realize that I need to start thinking about some of the decisions with regards to how I equip my bird. I came up with the following short list of items I may want to think about or plan for as I build my wings. This is not a list of things I want, just a list of things to consider. Am I missing anything or are there items I shouldn't worry about now (maybe Autopilot)?

I am not looking for product recommendations, I just don't want to find myself saying "I should have thought about this earlier."

- Lighting (ldg/taxi, strobes & position lights)
- Fuel Senders
- Fuel Pickups or Flop-Tubes
- Pitot Mast
- AOA System
- Autopilot Servo
- Missles and/or Guns

Thanks!

Captain_John · #2 10-25-2005, 02:08 PM

Brad, I am not going to get all wordy on you here. These are my plans:

- Lighting-Dual 55w Duckworks & LED's by unknown vendor
- Fuel Senders-Caps
- Fuel Pickups or Flop-Tubes-Flop in left, standard in right
- Pitot Mast-SafeAir kit with AOA
- AOA System-Dynon
- Autopilot Servo-TruTrack (get it later with finishing kit)
- Missles and/or Guns-7.62x39 (cheapest to buy in quantity)

Sounds like you are asking all the right questions!

CJ

DGlaeser · #3 10-25-2005, 02:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RV7Factory

I just started my wings and I am beginning to realize that I need to start thinking about some of the decisions with regards to how I equip my bird. I came up with the following short list of items I may want to think about or plan for as I build my wings. This is not a list of things I want, just a list of things to consider. Am I missing anything or are there items I shouldn't worry about now (maybe Autopilot)?

I am not looking for product recommendations, I just don't want to find myself saying "I should have thought about this earlier."

- Lighting (ldg/taxi, strobes & position lights)
- Fuel Senders
- Fuel Pickups or Flop-Tubes
- Pitot Mast
- AOA System
- Autopilot Servo
- Missles and/or Guns

Thanks!

You forgot drop-tanks and anti or de-ice system

Actually, your list is the same one I came up with - so I hope you didn't miss anything!

The autopilot servo can be added after the wings are done (saves buying it way early).

Dennis Glaeser
7A Wings (prosealing the second tank...)

alpinelakespilot2000 · #4 10-25-2005, 02:50 PM

Brad...

Although I didn't opt for them, if you want to use Van's "Deluxe" fuel caps, they have to be built into the tank--you can't retrofit later.

As far as all the other stuff... most can be decided on later assuming you leave the bottom skins off until the last possible moment. One thing you might want to do ahead of time, though, is drill any conduit/wiring holes in the ribs you think you might need and probably cutting out the leading edge for landing lights if you go Duckworth. They can both be done later, but not quite as easy.

good luck.

N941WR · #5 10-25-2005, 03:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alpinelakespilot2000

One thing you might want to do ahead of time, though, is drill any conduit/wiring holes in the ribs you think you might need and probably cutting out the leading edge for landing lights if you go Duckworth. They can both be done later, but not quite as easy.

If you are going to use the Dynon Pitot tube w/ their AOA, drill the holes for the extra air line at the same time you drill the hole for the pitot line.

Sounds like you are right on track.

Captain_John · #6 10-25-2005, 03:21 PM

Oooooooh, yah!!!

I second the Deee-lux caps!

...and drilling the holes for the AOA.

Good catches, Guys!

CJ

RV7Factory · #7 10-25-2005, 04:04 PM

Thanks guys! This is exactly the feedback I was looking for.

I bought and am planning on using the vans conduit for wiring and I was also planning on drilling out the other small holes and inserting snap bushings for the pitot/AOA lines. After reading comments about AOA systems over the past few months, I have come to the conclusion I would really like one in my airplane. I like the functionality and look of the AFS system (with it's audible warning) but if I go with a Dynon EFIS, the AOA is built in. This is where the want vs need struggle come in.

Ok, maybe its the want vs. really want struggle.

Decisions... Decisions... what's a builder to do?

I hadn't thought about the Deeee-lux caps (which I do want), and I am glad to hear I can skip the servo for now. Anyone know if Vans will take back the stock caps for credit?

alpinelakespilot2000 · #8 10-25-2005, 04:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RV7Factory

I like the functionality and look of the AFS system (with it's audible warning) but if I go with a Dynon EFIS, the AOA is built in.

At Arlington, WA this summer Dynon said they were working on audible warnings for AOA, but I didn't get the impression it is high priority. I think all of us who are thinking Dynon to let them know we want that. Certainly with the D100, the AOA indicator would be large enough to be very useable.

RV7Factory · #9 10-25-2005, 04:38 PM

I've been keeping tabs on Dynon through their support forums... Audible Warnings, GPS Integration, a Heated Pitot, etc.... they certainly seem to be working on a lot new stuff, or at least thinking of it. I just hope they get some of it done before I make my decision.

In the end, I would probably forgoe the functionality of the AFS system in favor of the Dynon (assuming I bought a Dynon)... why bother spending an additional $1500 for something I would already have (somewhat).

dwilson · #10 10-25-2005, 04:41 PM

You guys have pretty well summed it up, except for any antennas you might want in the wingtips.
I am putting in the Archer VOR antenna so I needed a coax run as well.

Duane Wilson
RV9A Fuselage
N141L reserved